Potential Complications from Using Sunosi: An Overview and Strategies for Handling Them
Long-Term Effects of Sunosi (Solriamfetol) for Narcolepsy and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Sunosi is a medication used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness in adults with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The drug, which belongs to the dopamine-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor class, offers therapeutic benefits but also carries potential risks related to side effects when used long-term.
Therapeutic Benefits
Sunosi helps improve wakefulness and reduces daytime sleepiness for adults with narcolepsy or OSA, thereby improving alertness and cognitive function during the day [1][2].
Potential Long-Term Side Effects
Mild side effects reported include headache, nausea, increased appetite, dry mouth, and insomnia [1][3]. Some users report difficulty falling asleep and hyper-awareness such as a faster heartbeat, shaky hands, or sweating, especially initially [3].
Serious side effects can include anxiety, increased blood pressure, and heart palpitations [1]. These raise concerns for cardiovascular health if Sunosi is used long-term.
There is a potential for misuse or dependence since Sunosi is a Schedule IV controlled substance [1]. Some patient experiences suggest a possible waning of effectiveness over months, indicating the medication might lose benefit or require dose adjustments in long-term use [3][4]. Brain fog and reduced motivation have been reported by a minority of users on long-term treatment, although these are less common side effects [4].
Cardiovascular Considerations in OSA Context
OSA itself poses significant long-term cardiovascular risks, including hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and heart failure risk due to chronic hypoxia and autonomic dysregulation [5]. Because Sunosi can raise blood pressure and heart rate, monitoring during prolonged use is important [1][5].
Common Side Effects
Nausea and vomiting were commonly reported side effects in Sunosi's clinical trials, with symptoms including decreased appetite, feeling as if you're going to vomit, retching, abdominal pain, and pressure in the back of your throat or stomach [1].
Mild side effects can also include decreased appetite, teeth grinding, dry mouth, irritability, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting, and mild allergic reactions [1].
Managing Side Effects
For constipation, drinking more water, increasing physical activity, and eating more fiber can help. If constipation does not ease, talk with your doctor. They may recommend certain over-the-counter medications to help, such as MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol) [1].
Safety Considerations
If you're breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before starting Sunosi treatment. They can recommend ways to feed your child [1]. The cost of Sunosi can vary depending on treatment plan, pharmacy, and insurance coverage [1].
It's not known whether Sunosi is safe to take during pregnancy [1]. If you experience sleep problems during Sunosi treatment, talk with your doctor. They may prescribe a different dosage of Sunosi or have you stop taking the drug [1].
Importance of Medical Supervision
Regular medical supervision is recommended to monitor efficacy and safety, especially given OSA’s own cardiovascular risks [1]. Patient reports indicate some users experience reduced benefit over time and side effects that may limit long-term tolerability [1][3][4].
- In extreme cases, prolonged use of Sunosi might lead to certain chronic diseases, such as hypertension, due to its impact on cardiovascular health.
- For individuals managing other medical-conditions, like mental-health issues or chronic-diseases, it's crucial to consult with healthcare providers before starting Sunosi treatment.
- To maintain overall health-and-wellness, it's essential to combine Sunosi with fitness-and-exercise, a balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.
- While using Sunosi, good sleep hygiene is still needed to minimize the risk of side effects like insomnia or difficulty falling asleep.
